Armed Forces: Accommodation

Lord Astor of Hever: My right honourable friend the Minister for Defence Personnel, Welfare and Veterans (Mr Robathan) has made the following Written Ministerial Statement.
	Following a review into support provided to senior officers, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has disestablished the status of official service residence this financial year.
	The MoD is committed to identifying efficiencies and savings where possible whilst maintaining essential operational capability. As part of this commitment a comprehensive review into the support provided to senior officers has been conducted and concluded that areas of the business could be improved by simplifying the management of service families' accommodation and by harmonising the support provided to senior officers across defence.
	In the past, a number of service properties were granted official service residence status if the post held by the occupant involved significant official entertaining duties. This status conferred an enhanced package of furniture, fixtures and furnishings for that property which has now been discontinued so service families accommodation is now all managed to the same standard. In addition, the support provided to more senior officers, such as domestic assistance for official hospitality, has been reduced and harmonised across the services. These changes are captured in a new tri-service policy which also revises the rules and regulations in relation to official hospitality.
	These measures will ensure that the support provided is appropriate and driven by business need, and they will lead to savings in due course. The properties which were formerly classed as official service residences will no longer form a separate grouping for purposes of management information.

Banks: Green Investment Bank

Baroness Wilcox: My right honourable friend the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills (Vince Cable) has today made the following Statement.
	On 24 May 2011, I made an oral statement setting out the Government's plans for a Green Investment Bank (GIB). I explained that establishing an effective, enduring GIB would be a major undertaking and gave a commitment to update the House on further milestones in future.
	The Government have made significant progress towards the establishment of an independent GIB, which will be a key component of the UK's transition to a green economy. As I explained in May, the Government will need to ensure that the GIB complies with state aid rules. We have had a constructive dialogue with the European Commission and are now in a position to formally notify our proposals. The Government will be seeking a broad remit for the GIB, including approval to make investments on commercial terms across the full spectrum of the green economy. Where we are seeking scope for the GIB to provide finance on state aided terms, we have developed strong evidence that such aid is necessary in the particular sector concerned and that this will not unduly distort competition or interstate trade.
	It will be important that GIB is in a position to be fully operational as soon as possible after state aid approval. I therefore intend to form the company shortly and to begin the formal recruitment process for the board and senior management team next month, with a view to appointing the chair in spring 2012.
	The Bank will operate independently from Government, but will agree its strategic priorities with the Government for each spending review period. Subject to approval by the European Commission, we have identified the following priority sectors over the spending review period to 2015-16:
	offshore wind power generation;
	commercial and industrial waste processing and recycling;energy from waste generation, including gasification, pyrolysis and anaerobic digestion for the production of heat and/ or power;non-domestic energy efficiency, including onsite renewable energy generation and heat; andsupport for the green deal.
	At least 80 per cent of the funds committed by the bank over the spending review period will be invested in these priority sectors.
	As I explained in May, the initial capitalisation of the GIB will be £3 billion. From 2015, the GIB will be given powers to borrow, subject to public sector net debt falling as a percentage of GDP. The GIB will work to a double bottom line of both achieving significant environmental impact and making financial returns. Potential investments will be assessed against the following objectives:
	green impact-accelerating investment to advance the UK's transition towards a green economy, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions; improving resource efficiency; and protecting and enhancing the natural environment and biodiversity, which includes improving water and air quality, reducing noise pollution and improving land use amenity; sound finances-deploying capital and expertise as a responsible investor and managing risks to achieve positive portfolio returns and, in so doing, preserving and building its capital base as an institution with enduring green impact; andadditionality-operating alongside other market participants in response to market failures, leveraging their capabilities where appropriate, to introduce and mobilise additional investment and achieve green impact.
	There has been considerable interest in the location of the GIB, with around 20 locations expressing interest to date. The Government welcome this, and are committed to an open and transparent process for deciding the location of the GIB. I have today published a document setting out details of the process that will be followed and the criteria which I will be taking into account in reaching my decision on location. The document also provides information about the likely structure of the GIB, and explains that it is expected to have between 50 and 70 staff in the period to 2015. Copies of the document have been placed in the House Libraries and will be available to download on the BIS website. I intend to announce my decision on the bank's location in February 2012.
	I announced in May that Sir Adrian Montague had agreed to chair an Advisory Group, comprising independent finance experts, to advise Government on the setting up and strategic direction of the new institution. I appointed nine other members in August, and the group has met three times. Its advice has greatly contributed to the progress made towards establishment of the GIB, particularly in relation to the detailed drafting of the GIB's strategic priorities.
	It is however clear that, in advance of state aid approval for the GIB, we need to take immediate action to accelerate private sector investment in the UK's transition to a green economy. I have therefore set up a new team within my department to drive investment in the UK's green infrastructure from April 2012. The team, which will be called UK Green Investments, will be staffed by finance professionals, whose track records are widely known and respected in the City.
	Drawing on funding of £775 million for the next financial year, UKGI will invest up to £100 million in commercial and industrial energy efficiency projects and will stand ready to make major co-investments with private finance in offshore wind projects. UKGI is also seeking managers for up to £100 million to invest in waste projects and is now calling for expressions of interest from experienced fund managers in the waste infrastructure sector.
	The Government will make investments during this period under Section 8 of the Industrial Development Act 1982. I have established an Investment Committee, including members of the Industrial Development Advisory Board, to advise me on investment proposals made by UKGI.

Benefits

Lord Freud: My honourable friend the Minister of State, Department for Work and Pensions (Steve Webb) has made the following Written Ministerial Statement.
	I am pleased to announce the proposed social security benefits rates for 2012, which are set out in the table below. The annual up-rating of benefits will take place for state pensions and most other benefits in the first full week of the tax year. In 2012, this will be the week beginning 9 April. A corresponding provision will be made in Northern Ireland.
	
		
			  Rates 2011 Rates 2012 
			 (Weekly rates unless otherwise shown)   
			 Attendance Allowance   
			 higher rate 73.60 77.45 
			 lower rate 49.30 51.85 
			 Bereavement Benefit   
			 Bereavement payment (lump sum) 2000.00 2000.00 
			 Widowed parent's allowance 100.70 105.95 
			 Bereavement Allowance   
			 standard rate 100.70 105.95 
			 age-related   
			 Age 54 93.65 98.53 
			 53 86.60 91.12 
			 52 79.55 83.70 
			 51 72.50 76.28 
			 50 65.46 68.87 
			 49 58.41 61.45 
			 48 51.36 54.03 
			 47 44.31 46.62 
			 46 37.26 39.20 
			 45 30.21 31.79 
			 Capital Limits - rules common to Income Support, income based Jobseeker's Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Pension Credit, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit unless stated otherwise   
			 upper limit 16000.00 16000.00 
			 upper limit - Pension Credit guarantee credit and those getting Housing Benefit /Council Tax Benefit and Pension Credit guarantee credit No limit No limit 
			 Amount disregarded - all benefits except Pension Credit and Housing Benefit and Council Tax benefit for those above the qualifying age for Guarantee Credit 6000.00 6000.00 
			 Amount disregarded - Pension Credit and Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit for those above the qualifying age for Pension Credit 10000.00 10000.00 
			 child disregard (not Pension Credit or Employment and Support Allowance) 3000.00 3000.00 
			 amount disregarded (living in RC/NH) 10000.00 10000.00 
			 Tariff income   
			 £1 for every £250, or part thereof, between the amount of capital disregarded and the capital upper limit   
			 Tariff income - Pension Credit and HB/CTB where claimant/ partner is over Guarantee Credit qualifying age   
			 £1 for every £500, or part thereof, between the amount of capital disregarded and capital upper limit   
			 Carer's Allowance 55.55 58.45 
			 Council Tax Benefit   
			 Personal allowances   
			 single   
			 18 to 24 53.45 56.25 
			 25 or over 67.50 71.00 
			 entitled to main phase ESA 67.50 71.00 
			 lone parent 67.50 71.00 
			 couple 105.95 111.45 
			 dependent children 62.33 64.99 
			 pensioner   
			 single/lone parent has attained the qualifying age for Pension Credit but under 65. 137.35 142.70 
			 couple - one or both has attained the qualifying age for Pension Credit but both under 65 209.70 217.90 
			 single/lone parent - 65 and over 157.90 161.25 
			 couple-one or both 65 and over 236.80 241.65 
			 Premiums   
			 family 17.40 17.40 
			 family (lone parent rate) 22.20 22.20 
			 disability   
			 single 28.85 30.35 
			 couple 41.10 43.25 
			 enhanced disability   
			 single 14.05 14.80 
			 disabled child 21.63 22.89 
			 couple 20.25 21.30 
			 severe disability   
			 single 55.30 58.20 
			 couple (lower rate) 55.30 58.20 
			 couple (higher rate) 110.60 116.40 
			 disabled child 53.62 56.63 
			 carer 31.00 32.60 
			 ESA components   
			 work-related activity 26.75 28.15 
			 support 32.35 34.05 
			 Alternative maximum Council Tax Benefit   
			 second adult on IS, JSA(IB), ESA(IR) or Pension Credit 25% of Council Tax 25% of Council Tax 
			 first adult(s) student(s) second adult's gross income 100% of Council Tax 100% of Council Tax 
			 - under £180.00 15% of Council Tax 15% of Council Tax 
			 - £180.00 to £234.99 7.5% of Council Tax 7.5% of Council Tax 
			 Deductions - rules common to Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, Pension Credit, Housing Benefit and Council tax benefit unless stated otherwise   
			 Non-dependant deductions from housing benefit and from IS, JSA(IB), ESA(IR) and Pension Credit   
			 aged 25 and over in receipt of IS and JSA(IB) , in receipt of main phase ESA(IR), aged 18 or over, not in remunerative work 9.40 11.45 
			 aged 18 or over and in remunerative work   
			 - gross income: less than £124.00 9.40 11.45 
			 - gross income: £124 to £182.99 21.55 26.25 
			 - gross income: £183 to £237.99 29.60 36.10 
			 - gross income: £238 to £315.99 48.45 59.05 
			 - gross income: £316 to £393.99 55.20 67.25 
			 - gross income: £394 and above 60.60 73.85 
			 Non-dependant deductions from council tax benefit aged 18 or over and in remunerative work   
			 - gross income: £394 or more 8.60 9.90 
			 - gross income: £316 - £393.99 7.20 8.25 
			 - gross income: £183 - £315.99 5.70 6.55 
			 - gross income less than £183 2.85 3.30 
			 others, aged 18 or over 2.85 3.30 
			 Deductions from housing benefit   
			 Service charges for fuel   
			 heating 21.55 25.50 
			 hot water 2.50 2.95 
			 lighting 1.75 2.05 
			 cooking 2.50 2.95 
			 Amount ineligible for meals   
			 three or more meals a day   
			 single claimant 24.05 25.30 
			 each person in family aged 16 or over 24.05 25.30 
			 each child under 16 12.15 12.80 
			 less than three meals a day   
			 single claimant 16.00 16.85 
			 each person in family aged 16 or over 16.00 16.85 
			 each child under 16 8.05 8.45 
			 breakfast only - claimant and each member of the family 2.95 3.10 
			 Amount for personal expenses (not HB/CTB) 22.60 23.25 
			 Third party deductions from IS, JSA(IB), ESA(IR) and Pension Credit for;   
			 arrears of housing, fuel and water costs council tax etc. and deductions for ELDS and ILS. 3.40 3.55 
			 child support, contribution towards maintenance (CTM)   
			 standard deduction 6.80 7.10 
			 lower deduction 3.40 3.55 
			 arrears of Community Charge   
			 court order against claimant 3.40 3.55 
			 court order against couple 5.30 5.60 
			 fine or compensation order   
			 standard rate 5.00 5.00 
			 lower rate 3.40 3.55 
			 Maximum deduction rates for recovery of overpayments (not CTB/JSA(C)/ESA(C)) ordinary overpayments 10.20 10.65 
			 where claimant convicted of fraud 13.60 17.75 
			 Deductions from JSA(C) and ESA (C)   
			 Arrears of Comm. Charge, Council Tax, fines & overpayment recovery   
			 Age 16 - 24 17.81 18.75 
			 Age 25 + 22.50 23.66 
			 Max. dedn for arrears of Child Maintenance (CTM)   
			 Age 16 - 24 17.81 18.75 
			 Age 25 + 22.50 23.66 
			 Dependency Increases   
			 Adult dependency increases for spouse or person looking after children - payable with;   
			 State Pension on own insurance (Cat A or B) 58.80 61.85 
			 long term Incapacity Benefit ISCS Group 13 Type 5 54.75 57.60 
			 Severe Disablement Allowance 32.90 34.60 
			 Carers Allowance 32.70 34.40 
			 short-term Incapacity Benefit (over state pension age) 52.70 55.45 
			 short-term Incapacity Benefit (under State Pension age) 42.65 44.85 
			 Child Dependency Increases - payable with;   
			 State Pension; Widowed Mothers/Parents Allowance; short-term Incapacity benefit - higher rate or over state pension age; long-term Incapacity Benefit; Carer's Allowance; Severe Disablement Allowance; Industrial Death Benefit (higher rate); 11.35 11.35 
			 NB - The rate of child dependency increase is adjusted where it is payable for the eldest child for whom child benefit is also paid. The weekly rate in such cases is reduced by the difference (less £3.65) between the ChB rates for the eldest and subsequent children. 8.10 8.10 
			 Disability Living Allowance   
			 Care Component   
			 Highest 73.60 77.45 
			 Middle 49.30 51.85 
			 Lowest 19.55 20.55 
			 Mobility Component   
			 Higher 51.40 54.05 
			 Lower 19.55 20.55 
			 Disregards   
			 Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit   
			 Earnings disregards   
			 standard (single claimant) 5.00 5.00 
			 couple 10.00 10.00 
			 higher (special occupations/circumstances) 20.00 20.00 
			 lone parent 25.00 25.00 
			 childcare charges 175.00 175.00 
			 childcare charges (2 or more children) 300.00 300.00 
			 permitted work higher 95.00 97.50 
			 permitted work lower 20.00 20.00 
			 Other Income disregards   
			 adult maintenance disregard 15.00 15.00 
			 war disablement pension and war widows pension 10.00 10.00 
			 widowed mothers/parents allowance 15.00 15.00 
			 Armed Forces Compensation Scheme 10.00 10.00 
			 student loan 10.00 10.00 
			 student's covenanted income 5.00 5.00 
			 income from boarders (plus 50% of the balance) 20.00 20.00 
			 additional earnings disregard 17.10 17.10 
			 income from subtenants (£20 fixed from April 08) 20.00 20.00 
			 Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance and Pension Credit   
			 Earnings disregards   
			 standard (single claimant) 5.00 5.00 
			 couple 10.00 10.00 
			 higher (special occupations/circumstances) 20.00 20.00 
			 Other Income disregards   
			 war disablement pension and war widows pension 10.00 10.00 
			 widowed mothers/parents allowance 10.00 10.00 
			 Armed Forces Compensation Scheme 10.00 10.00 
			 student loan (not Pension Credit) 10.00 10.00 
			 student's covenanted income (not Pension Credit) 5.00 5.00 
			 income from boarders (plus 50% of the balance) 20.00 20.00 
			 income from subtenants (£20 fixed from April 08) 20.00 20.00 
			 Earnings Rules   
			 Carers Allowance 100.00 100.00 
			 Limit of earnings from councillor's allowance 95.00 97.50 
			 Permitted work earnings limit - higher 95.00 97.50 
			 - lower 20.00 20.00 
			 Industrial injuries unemployability supplement permitted earnings level (annual amount) 4940.00 5070.00 
			 Earnings level at which adult dependency (ADI) increases are affected with:   
			 short-term incapacity benefit where claimant is   
			 (a) under state pension age 42.65 44.85 
			 (b) over state pension age 52.70 55.45 
			 state pension, long term incapacity benefit, severe disablement allowance, unemployability supplement - payable when dependant   
			 (a) is living with claimant 67.50 71.00 
			 (b) still qualifies for the tapered earnings rule 45.09 45.09 
			 Earnings level at which ADI is affected when dependent is not living with claimant;   
			 state pension, 58.80 61.85 
			 long-term incapacity benefit, 54.75 57.60 
			 unemployability supplement, 55.55 58.45 
			 severe disablement allowance 32.90 34.60 
			 Carers allowance 32.70 34.40 
			 Earnings level at which child dependency increases are affected   
			 for first child 205.00 215.00 
			 additional amount for each subsequent child 27.00 28.00 
			 Pension income threshold for incapacity benefit 85.00 85.00 
			 Pension income threshold for contributory Employment Support Allowance 85.00 85.00 
			 Employment and Support Allowance   
			 Personal Allowances   
			 Single   
			 under 25 53.45 56.25 
			 25 or over 67.50 71.00 
			 lone parent   
			 under 18 53.45 56.25 
			 18 or over 67.50 71.00 
			 couple   
			 both under 18 53.45 56.25 
			 both under 18 with child 80.75 84.95 
			 both under 18 (main phase) 67.50 71.00 
			 both under 18 with child (main phase) 105.95 111.45 
			 one 18 or over, one under 18 (certain conditions apply) 105.95 111.45 
			 both over 18 105.95 111.45 
			 claimant under 25, partner under 18 53.45 56.25 
			 claimant 25 or over, partner under 18 67.50 71.00 
			 claimant (main phase), partner under 18 67.50 71.00 
			 Premiums   
			 enhanced disability   
			 single 14.05 14.80 
			 couple 20.25 21.30 
			 severe disability   
			 single 55.30 58.20 
			 couple (lower rate) 55.30 58.20 
			 couple (higher rate) 110.60 116.40 
			 carer 31.00 32.60 
			 pensioner   
			 single with WRAC 43.10 43.55 
			 single with support component 37.50 37.65 
			 single with no component 69.85 71.70 
			 couple with WRAC 77.00 78.30 
			 couple with support component 71.40 72.40 
			 couple with no component 103.75 106.45 
			 Components   
			 Work-related Activity 26.75 28.15 
			 Support 32.35 34.05 
			 Housing Benefit   
			 Personal allowances   
			 single   
			 under 25 53.45 56.25 
			 25 or over 67.50 71.00 
			 entitled to main phase ESA 67.50 71.00 
			 lone parent   
			 under 18 53.45 56.25 
			 18 or over 67.50 71.00 
			 entitled to main phase ESA 67.50 71.00 
			 couple   
			 both under 18 80.75 84.95 
			 one or both 18 or over 105.95 111.45 
			 claimant entitled to main phase ESA 105.95 111.45 
			 dependent children 62.33 64.99 
			 pensioner   
			 single/lone parent has attained the qualifying age for Pension Credit but under 65. 137.35 142.70 
			 couple - one or both has attained the qualifying age for Pension Credit but both under 65 209.70 217.90 
			 single / lone parent - 65 and over 157.90 161.25 
			 couple - one or both 65 and over 236.80 241.65 
			 Premiums   
			 family 17.40 17.40 
			 family (lone parent rate) 22.20 22.20 
			 disability   
			 single 28.85 30.35 
			 couple 41.10 43.25 
			 enhanced disability   
			 single 14.05 14.80 
			 disabled child 21.63 22.89 
			 couple 20.25 21.30 
			 severe disability   
			 single 55.30 58.20 
			 couple (lower rate) 55.30 58.20 
			 couple (higher rate) 110.60 116.40 
			 disabled child 53.62 56.63 
			 carer 31.00 32.60 
			 ESA components   
			 work-related activity 26.75 28.15 
			 support 32.35 34.05 
			 Incapacity Benefit   
			 Long-term Incapacity Benefit 94.25 99.15 
			 Short-term Incapacity Benefit (under state pension age)   
			 lower rate 71.10 74.80 
			 higher rate 84.15 88.55 
			 Short-term Incapacity Benefit (over state pension age)   
			 lower rate 90.45 95.15 
			 higher rate 94.25 99.15 
			 Increase of Long-term Incapacity Benefit for age   
			 higher rate 13.80 11.70 
			 lower rate 5.60 5.90 
			 Invalidity Allowance (Transitional)   
			 higher rate 13.80 11.70 
			 middle rate 7.10 5.90 
			 lower rate 5.60 5.90 
			 Income Support   
			 Personal Allowances   
			 single   
			 under 25 53.45 56.25 
			 25 or over 67.50 71.00 
			 lone parent   
			 under 18 53.45 56.25 
			 18 or over 67.50 71.00 
			 couple   
			 both under 18 53.45 56.25 
			 both under 18 - higher rate 80.75 84.95 
			 one under 18, one under 25 53.45 56.25 
			 one under 18, one 25 and over 67.50 71.00 
			 both 18 or over 105.95 111.45 
			 dependent children 62.33 64.99 
			 Premiums   
			 family / lone parent 17.40 17.40 
			 pensioner (applies to couples only) 103.75 106.45 
			 disability   
			 single 28.85 30.35 
			 couple 41.10 43.25 
			 enhanced disability   
			 single 14.05 14.80 
			 disabled child 21.63 22.89 
			 couple 20.25 21.30 
			 severe disability   
			 single 55.30 58.20 
			 couple (lower rate) 55.30 58.20 
			 couple (higher rate) 110.60 116.40 
			 disabled child 53.62 56.63 
			 carer 31.00 32.60 
			 Relevant sum for strikers 36.00 38.00 
			 Industrial Death Benefit   
			 Widow's pension   
			 higher rate 102.15 107.45 
			 lower rate 30.65 32.24 
			 Widower's pension 102.15 107.45 
			 Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit   
			 18 and over, or under 18 with dependants   
			 100% 150.30 158.10 
			 90% 135.27 142.29 
			 80% 120.24 126.48 
			 70% 105.21 110.67 
			 60% 90.18 94.86 
			 50% 75.15 79.05 
			 40% 60.12 63.24 
			 30% 45.09 47.43 
			 20% 30.06 31.62 
			 Under 18   
			 100% 92.10 96.90 
			 90% 82.89 87.21 
			 80% 73.68 77.52 
			 70% 64.47 67.83 
			 60% 55.26 58.14 
			 50% 46.05 48.45 
			 40% 36.84 38.76 
			 30% 27.63 29.07 
			 20% 18.42 19.38 
			 Maximum life gratuity (lump sum) 9980.00 10500.00 
			 Unemployability Supplement 92.90 97.75 
			 increase for early incapacity   
			 higher rate 19.25 20.25 
			 middle rate 12.40 13.00 
			 lower rate 6.20 6.50 
			 Maximum reduced earnings allowance 60.12 63.24 
			 Maximum retirement allowance 15.03 15.81 
			 Constant attendance allowance   
			 exceptional rate 120.40 126.60 
			 intermediate rate 90.30 94.95 
			 normal maximum rate 60.20 63.30 
			 part-time rate 30.10 31.65 
			 Exceptionally severe disablement allowance 60.20 63.30 
			 Jobseeker's Allowance   
			 Contribution based JSA - Personal rates   
			 under 25 53.45 56.25 
			 25 or over 67.50 71.00 
			 Income-based JSA - personal allowances   
			 under 25 53.45 56.25 
			 25 or over 67.50 71.00 
			 lone parent   
			 under 18 53.45 56.25 
			 18 or over 67.50 71.00 
			 couple   
			 both under 18 53.45 56.25 
			 both under 18 - higher rate 80.75 84.95 
			 one under 18, one under 25 53.45 56.25 
			 one under 18, one 25 and over 67.50 71.00 
			 both 18 or over 105.95 111.45 
			 dependent children 62.33 64.99 
			 Premiums   
			 family / lone parent 17.40 17.40 
			 pensioner   
			 single 69.85 71.70 
			 couple 103.75 106.45 
			 disability   
			 single 28.85 30.35 
			 couple 41.10 43.25 
			 enhanced disability   
			 single 14.05 14.80 
			 disabled child 21.63 22.89 
			 couple 20.25 21.30 
			 severe disability   
			 single 55.30 58.20 
			 couple (lower rate) 55.30 58.20 
			 couple (higher rate) 110.60 116.40 
			 disabled child 53.62 56.63 
			 carer 31.00 32.60 
			 Prescribed sum for strikers 36.00 38.00 
			 Maternity Allowance   
			 Standard rate 128.73 135.45 
			 MA threshold 30.00 30.00 
			 Pension Credit   
			 Standard minimum guarantee   
			 single 137.35 142.70 
			 couple 209.70 217.90 
			 Additional amount for severe disability   
			 single 55.30 58.20 
			 couple (one qualifies) 55.30 58.20 
			 couple (both qualify) 110.60 116.40 
			 Additional amount for carers 31.00 32.60 
			 Savings credit   
			 threshold - single 103.15 111.80 
			 threshold - couple 164.55 178.35 
			 maximum - single 20.52 18.54 
			 maximum - couple 27.09 23.73 
			 Amount for claimant and first spouse in polygamous marriage 209.70 217.90 
			 Additional amount for additional spouse 72.35 75.20 
			 Non-State Pensions (for Pension Credit purposes)   
			 Statutory minimum increase to non-state pensions Increase by: 5.20% 
			 Pneumoconiosis, Byssinosis, and Miscellaneous Diseases Scheme and the Workmen's Compensation (Supplementation)   
			 Total disablement allowance and major incapacity allowance (maximum) 150.30 158.10 
			 Partial disablement allowance 55.55 58.45 
			 Unemployability supplement 92.90 97.75 
			 increases for early incapacity -   
			 higher rate 19.25 20.25 
			 middle rate 12.40 13.00 
			 lower rate 6.20 6.50 
			 Constant attendance allowance   
			 exceptional rate 120.40 126.60 
			 intermediate rate 90.30 94.95 
			 normal maximum rate 60.20 63.30 
			 part-time rate 30.10 31.65 
			 Exceptionally severe disablement allowance 60.20 63.30 
			 Lesser incapacity allowance   
			 maximum rate of allowance 55.55 58.45 
			 based on loss of earnings over 73.60 77.45 
			 Severe Disablement Allowance   
			 Basic rate 62.95 69.00 
			 Age-related addition (from Dec 90)   
			 Higher rate 13.80 11.70 
			 Middle rate 7.10 5.90 
			 Lower rate 5.60 5.90 
			 State Pension   
			 Category A or B 102.15 107.45 
			 Category B(lower) - spouse or civil partner's insurance 61.20 64.40 
			 Category C or D - non-contributory 61.20 64.40 
			 Additional pension Increase by: 5.20% 
			 Increments to:-   
			 Basic pension Increase by: 5.20% 
			 Additional pension Increase by: 5.20% 
			 Graduated Retirement Benefit (GRB) Increase by: 5.20% 
			 Inheritable lump sum Increase by: 5.20% 
			 Contracted-out Deduction from AP in respect of pre-April 1988 contracted-out earnings Nil Nil 
			 Contracted-out Deduction from AP in respect of   
			 contracted-out earnings from April 1988 to 1997 Increase by: 3.00% 
			 Graduated Retirement Benefit(unit) 0.1189 0.1251 
			 Increase of long term incapacity for age Increase by: 5.20% 
			 Addition at age 80 0.25 0.25 
			 Increase of Long-term incapacity for age   
			 higher rate 19.25 20.25 
			 lower rate 9.65 10.15 
			 Invalidity Allowance (Transitional) for State Pension recipients   
			 higher rate 19.25 20.25 
			 middle rate 12.40 13.00 
			 lower rate 6.20 6.50 
			 Statutory Adoption Pay   
			 Earnings threshold 102.00 107.00 
			 Standard Rate 128.73 135.45 
			 Statutory Maternity Pay   
			 Earnings threshold 102.00 107.00 
			 Standard rate 128.73 135.45 
			 Statutory Paternity Pay   
			 Earnings threshold 102.00 107.00 
			 Standard Rate 128.73 135.45 
			 Additional Statutory Paternity Pay   
			 Earnings threshold 102.00 107.00 
			 Standard Rate 128.73 135.45 
			 Statutory Sick Pay   
			 Earnings threshold 102.00 107.00 
			 Standard rate 81.60 85.85 
			 Widow's Benefit   
			 Widowed mother's allowance 100.70 105.95 
			 Widow's pension   
			 standard rate 100.70 105.95 
			 age-related   
			 age54(49) 93.65 98.53 
			 53(48) 86.60 91.12 
			 52(47) 79.55 83.70 
			 51(46) 72.50 76.28 
			 50(45) 65.46 68.87 
			 49(44) 58.41 61.45 
			 48(43) 51.36 54.03 
			 47(42) 44.31 46.62 
			 46(41) 37.26 39.20 
			 45(40) 30.21 31.79 
		
	
	Note: For deaths occurring before 11 April 1988 refer to age-points shown in brackets.

Lord Freud: One of the key tasks that the Government have faced over the past year and a half has been to fundamentally reassess the role the welfare system should play in the 21st century.
	We recognise that spousal bereavement is a life-changing event. Emotionally, socially, economically, bereaved people face the task of re-establishing themselves and adjusting to their new circumstances. We know that this journey varies considerably according to personal circumstance, with people drawing on a wide range of support mechanisms to get them through. Bereavement benefits form an important part of the state safety net at this time.
	But these benefits have fallen outside the recent reviews of the wider welfare system. Indeed, they have rarely undergone any kind of critical scrutiny to establish whether they provide effective support after the loss of a spouse or civil partner.
	To address this we are today publishing a consultation paper on the future of bereavement benefits. We are seeking views on how in the future these payments should support those of working age who suffer the loss of a husband, wife or civil partner. We are aware we need to strike a balance between providing appropriate support at a critical time, whilst encouraging those of working age to support themselves and their families through employment when they feel able to do so.
	Payments made under the War Pensions Scheme or Armed Forces Compensation Scheme will not be affected by this review. The review will not impact those already in receipt of bereavement benefits at the point at which a new scheme is introduced.
	A copy of the document will be available in the Printed Paper office later today.
	Further details will be available on the Department for Work and Pensions website at http://www.dwp.gov. uk/consultations/2011/bereavement-benefit.shtml.

EU: General Affairs Council

Lord Howell of Guildford: My honourable friend the Minister of State (David Lidington) has made the following Written Ministerial Statement: I attended the General Affairs Council (GAC) in Brussels on 5 December.
	The GAC was chaired by the EU presidency, Mikolaj Dowgielewicz, Secretary of State for European Affairs of Poland. A provisional report of the meeting and all conclusions adopted can be found at: http://www. consilium.europa.eu/uedocs/cms_data/docs/press data/EN/genaff/126578.pdf.
	The agenda items covered were as follows:
	Multiannual financial framework (MFF)
	In a public session, Ministers noted the presidency's report on MFF which can be found at: http://register .consilium.europa.eu/pdf/en/11/st17/st17448-re01.en11.pdf.
	The incoming Danish presidency undertook to take forward this work with the aim of adopting the MFF by the end of 2012.
	Preparation for the December European Council
	Ministers discussed preparations for the December European Council with the President of the Council, Herman Van Rompuy.
	On the eurozone, I and others stressed the need for increased transparency and full interaction between the 17 eurozone members and the 10 non-members.
	During discussions on council conclusions, I set out UK views on energy and made proposals for references to our shared concerns about the regime in Iran.
	My right honourable friend the Prime Minister will report to Parliament after he has attended the European Council on 8 and 9 December.
	Commission work programme for 2012
	The Commissioner for Inter-Institutional Relations and Administration, Maros Sefcovic, presented the Commission's work programme for 2012 (see link below). The report cites restoring the EU's economy as its top priority. http://register.consilium.europa.eu/pdf/en/11/st17/st17394.en11.pdf/
	Annual growth survey
	Commissioner Sefcovic also outlined key elements of the 2012 Annual Growth Survey (see link below). The incoming EU presidency, Denmark, added that they would hold a series of bilateral discussions with member states on the report in January 2012. http://register.consilium.europa.eu/pdf/en/11/st17/st17229. en11.pdf.
	Enlargement
	In its conclusions (see link at the beginning of this statement) the council reiterated the importance of the enlargement process in generating far-reaching political and economic reform and securing stability and democracy; and looked forward to developing a new approach towards those negotiating chapters dealing with judiciary and fundamental rights and justice, freedom and security, tackling them early in the enlargement process. The council welcomed Turkey's continued commitment to the negotiation process and the political reform agenda, and, with strong support from me, positively noted the Commission's proposal for a positive agenda with Turkey in support of negotiations. The council welcomed the successful completion of accession negotiations with Croatia, whilst also highlighting the need for continued efforts to reform further where necessary, and looked forward to the signature of the accession treaty in the margins of the December European Council.
	On the western Balkans, I reiterated the UK's strong commitment to the future of all countries of the western Balkans being in the EU once the required conditions are met. Discussion was particularly focused on Serbia and Kosovo. On Serbia, the council agreed that progress on Serbia's relationship with Kosovo was the key criteria for movement on their EU path. A decision on Serbia's candidate status would be taken at the December European Council. The council also agreed further tangible steps towards Kosovo's EU future. The council took note of the progress Montenegro has made towards opening accession negotiations, which would also be considered at the December European Council.
	European Court of Justice
	The presidency made a short presentation on the state of play regarding proposals to improve the efficiency of the court.

EU: Justice and Homes Affairs Council

Lord McNally: The Justice and Home Affairs Council is due to be held on 13 and 14 December in Brussels. My right honourable friend, Home Secretary (Theresa May), my right honourable friend, the Secretary of State for Justice (Kenneth Clarke MP) and the Scottish Solicitor General, (Lesley Thomson) will attend on behalf of the United Kingdom. As the provisional agenda stands, the following items will be discussed:
	The council will begin in mixed committee with Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland (non-EU Schengen states). There will be an update, supported by a written report, on the Commission-led project to implement the central element of the second generation Schengen Information System (SIS II); the UK will continue to reiterate its support for the continuation of the current SIS II project.
	There will also be a state of play on certain issues regarding the draft regulation amending Council Regulation (EC) No 539/2001 which lists the third countries whose nationals must be in possession of visas when crossing the external borders and those whose nationals are exempt from that requirement. The UK is not bound by this regulation as we do not participate in the migration aspects of the Schengen acquis.
	The presidency will invite an exchange of views by member states on the EU response to increased migration pressures. This item builds on discussions at the last two councils; it will include combating illegal migration in the context of migration flows from the Southeast (including Greek-Turkish border) and the southern Mediterranean. The UK supports increased efforts to combat illegal flows across the external border and within the EU, including closer co-operation between Frontex, the European Asylum Support Office and Europol. We believe this should be linked to further work upstream in countries of origin and transit, using the tools of the EU's global approach to migration, as well as joint efforts to combat the abuse of free movement.
	Over lunch the presidency will seek a steer from Ministers on the key issues blocking negotiations regarding Schengen governance, namely the choice of legal base for the Schengen evaluation mechanism and the role the Commission should play in taking decisions to reintroduce border controls.
	In both mixed committee and main committee there will be a presentation by the Commission and first exchange of views on proposals for new JHA funding programmes under the multiannual financial framework (MFF) 2014-20. The package includes a communication and proposals for four regulations establishing a new Internal Security Fund and the Asylum Migration Fund (AMF). Whilst the Government welcome the flexibility and potential efficiency that will be offered from merging the six existing funding programmes into two programmes, we are concerned about the size of the overall budget proposed by the Commission. We will also need to consider our participation under the JHA opt-in arrangements.
	The presidency will seek support for its proposal on a process for early warning, preparedness and management of asylum crises. Instead of a clause allowing transfers under the Dublin Regulation to be suspended, the proposal would envisage a provision in the Dublin Regulation requiring member states to provide data about their asylum system to the European Asylum Support Office (EASO) and for action plans to be drawn up if it appears that their systems may be facing difficulties. The Government can support this in principle provided the action plans are drawn up by the member states themselves, acting through EASO, and not by the Commission.
	The Commission will then present its proposals on the global approach to migration and mobility. The current global approach provides the overarching framework for much of the EU's work with third country partners on migration. The UK welcomes the Commission's proposals for a renewed global approach, which should provide additional opportunities to work in conjunction with EU and international partners on migration, including combating illegal immigration. While we welcome a more comprehensive global approach, it is essential that it remains non-binding, and allows member states to decide on participation in various initiatives on a case-by-case basis. The Government will continue to ensure that any participation is compatible with the UK's immigration policy.
	The presidency may attempt to secure agreement on the date for the removal of controls on Bulgaria and Romania's sea and air borders with countries in the Schengen area. This is dependent on the outcome of discussions at the European Council on 9th December. The UK will not have a vote at this council on this issue as it concerns borders elements in which we do not participate.
	The council will be presented with a package of counter terrorism (CT) items covering the EU Action Plan on combating terrorism, the EU CT strategy and the report on the implementation of the strategy on terrorist financing. The UK welcomes the work that is being done at an EU level to mitigate the terrorist threat in particular the work around data sharing and aligning internal and external CT activities. It will be important moving forward that the member states stay focused on the implementation of the chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) and air cargo security action plans.
	The presidency will want to adopt the council decision and to sign the EU-US passenger name records (PNR) agreement, which was published on 24 November. The agreement will provide an unequivocal basis in EU law for the transfer of PNR data by EU-based carriers to the US Department of Homeland Security. The Government support this proposal and have agreed to waive our treaty rights to three months consideration of opt in so that the council can proceed without us. However, the text remains subject to scrutiny in Parliament and we have therefore not exercised our opt-in in order to give the committees an opportunity to consider the agreement.
	There will be a discussion on cross-border itinerant criminality. The issue of mobile itinerant organised crime groups was identified as one of the 8 EU crime priorities for 2012-13 and is being addressed as one of eight projects under the EU policy cycle (on tackling organised crime), being overseen by the Standing Committee On Operational Co-Operation on Internal Security (COSI). The UK has decided not to participate in this project at this time as the UK does not focus on itinerant criminals as a distinct group (itinerant groups do not feature in the UK threat assessment as we consider all organised crime by crime type and threat area).
	The justice day will begin with the presidency seeking to obtain general agreement on the provisions of the proposed regulation on succession and wills. As the UK has not opted in to this proposal it will not participate in any vote on these guidelines.
	The presidency will also be looking to reach agreement on certain elements of the proposal to modify the regulation on jurisdiction and the recognition and enforcement of judgments in civil and commercial matters (Brussels I). The regulation lays down rules governing the jurisdiction of courts and the recognition and enforcement of cross-border judgments in civil and commercial matters in the member states. The Government opted-in to the proposal in March.
	Next there will be a debate of specific issues of the regulation on an EU common sales law. This proposal was presented at the October JHA Council where the Commission confirmed it would be an offer an alternative contract law regime that would form part of the law of each member state but would not harmonise national contract law systems.
	The council will discuss the European Investigation Order (EIO). The EIO is a draft directive aimed at streamlining the process of mutual legal assistance between participating EU countries. The UK has opted in. The presidency will be seeking to reach a general approach (agreement) on the EIO. A partial general approach to Articles 1-18 was achieved at the June JHA Council. There have been significant improvements to the original draft of the EIO and we are considering our position in relation to the current text. The EIO also remains subject to parliamentary scrutiny.
	There will then be a debate on the draft directive on establishing minimum standards on the rights, support and protection of victims of crime. The presidency will be looking to agree a general approach and a scrutiny waiver has been granted by both Houses.
	The presidency will then provide an update regarding the draft directive on the right of access to a lawyer in criminal proceedings and on the right to communicate upon arrest. This is the third proposal on the EU's criminal procedural rights roadmap which sets minimum standards for the rights of the defence. This presidency also gave an update on this directive at the October JHA Council.
	Next, the Commission will present proposals for two new funding programmes in the area of justice, rights and citizenship for the period 2014-20. These are to replace the existing funding programmes in the current fundamental rights and justice framework. The overall objectives of the proposed justice programme are to promote judicial co-operation in civil and criminal matters, facilitate access to justice and to prevent and reduce drug supply and demand, while the objective of the rights and citizenship programme is to contribute to the creation of an area where the rights set out in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in the Charter of Fundamental Rights are promoted and protected.
	Finally the presidency will be providing a state of play update to council on the negotiations on EU accession to ECHR. The negotiating mandate was agreed at the JHA Council in June 2010, and a draft version of an accession agreement was produced by experts with knowledge of the convention system in June 2011. This is now subject to further consideration.

Schools: Pupil Premium

Lord Hill of Oareford: My honourable friend the Minister of State for Children and Families (Sarah Teather) made the following Written Ministerial Statement.
	I am today confirming the funding available for schools in England in 2012-13, through the pupil premium and what this means in terms of funding per pupil. The pupil premium targets additional money at pupils from the most deprived background to help them achieve their full potential.
	In 2012-13 the amount available for the pupil premium will double from £625 million in 2011-12 to £1.25 billion. It will further rise to £2.5 billion by 2014-15.
	The Government have decided that eligibility for the pupil premium in 2012-13 will be extended to pupils who have been eligible for free school meals (FSM) at any point in the past six years. Earlier this year we consulted on options for extending the coverage of the pupil premium. As a group, children who have been eligible for FSM at any point in time have consistently lower educational attainment than those who have never been eligible for FSM. Up to £50 million of the £1.25 billion will be used to support a summer school programme to help the most disadvantaged pupils make the transition from primary to secondary school. This approach received the highest support with 44 per cent of those responding backing its introduction.
	Increasing overall funding for the premium next year to £1.25 billion will enable the coverage of the premium to be extended to a further half a million pupils, while at the same time increasing the level of the premium from £488 to £600 per pupil. This will ensure that a higher proportion of underachieving children are able to benefit from the extra funding provided through the premium.
	Schools will have the freedom to spend the premium, which is additional to the underlying schools budget, in a way they think will best support the raising of attainment for the most vulnerable pupils.
	We urge schools and local authorities to encourage parents to register their child as eligible for free school meals so that each school receives their maximum pupil premium entitlement.
	To ensure transparency and accountability, schools will be required from September 2012 to publish on-line information about how they have used their pupil premium allocations. New measures will be included in the performance tables that will capture the attainment of pupils covered by the pupil premium.
	We will continue to provide the pupil premium for children in care who have been looked after for more than six months, recognising that they need additional support to help them raise their educational achievement.
	We will also continue to provide a premium for children of parents in the armed services, who face particular challenges. The level of this service child premium will be £250 in 2012-13, up from £200 in 2011-12.
	Annex A
	Accompanying documents
	These products can be found online at: http://www.education.gov.uk/schools/adminandfinance/financialmanagement/schoolsrevenuefunding.
	Example pupil premium allocations using the Ever 6 indicator applied to the January 2011 School Census

Schools: Teachers

Lord Hill of Oareford: My honourable friend the Secretary of State for Education (Michael Gove) made the following Written Ministerial Statement.
	I established the review in March this year. Chaired by Mrs Coates, principal of Burlington Danes Academy, it brought together leading head teachers, teachers and other educational experts. The review was tasked with establishing new standards that are clear, unequivocal and easy to use, and which can support teachers' professional development and performance management.
	The review's first report, submitted to me on 14 July 20111, recommended that a single new set of teachers' standards should be established to replace the existing standards for qualified teacher status and the core professional standards. I accepted those recommendations, and the new teachers' standards will come into effect in September 2012.2
	The Government welcomed Mrs Coates's recommendations to establish streamlined new teachers' standards that set out very clearly and concisely the elements of high-quality teaching that should be expected of every teacher. The new standards place a welcome emphasis on the importance of good subject knowledge, behaviour management, and meeting the needs of pupils of all abilities and aptitudes. We are committed to raising the quality of teaching in all our schools, so that pupils and their parents can be confident that they are receiving the highest quality education. Clear and rigorous standards play an important role in ensuring that high quality of teaching that all should expect.
	The review's second report is now recommending that the existing post-threshold, excellent teacher and advanced skills teacher standards should be discontinued as standards. Further, the review recommends that a new master teacher standard should be introduced to define the characteristics of the most effective classroom teachers.
	We welcome the proposal to establish a new standard that identifies and recognises those teachers who are demonstrating excellent practice in the classroom, and who are making the most significant positive impact on their pupils. The proposal of a single master teacher standard has the potential to bring much greater simplicity and clarity to what is at present a complex and highly bureaucratic system of standards.
	My department will now take forward further work to explore the implications of discontinuing the current post-threshold, excellent teacher and advanced skills teacher standards. This will include asking the School Teachers' Review Body to consider the implications for teachers' pay.
	The first and final reports of the review are published on the Department for Education's website: http://www.education.gov.uk/schools/teachingandlearning/reviewofstandards .
	Copies of both reports, and of my correspondence with Mrs Coates, have been placed in the Libraries of both Houses.
	1 http://media.education.gov.uk/assets/files/pdf/r/first%20report %20-%2012%20july%202011.pdf
	2 http://media.education.gov.uk/assets/files/pdf/l/letter%20from %20michael%20gove%20to%20sally%20coates.pdf.